When you’re a jewelry-obsessed lady like myself, even the smallest remnants double as potential material for the next accessory project. I mean, I know I can’t be the only one who thinks this way. This tutorial showcases that very concept. Using just a few supplies, you can use different types of jewelry wire to create a pair of hoop earrings with a clean, minimalist design. In today’s post I will show you how to make hoop earrings with a cool geometric design.
How to Make Hoop Earrings Supplies:
- Darice Silver Plated Earring Hoops
- Darice 16 Gauge Silver Plated Copper Wire
- Darice 24 Gauge Copper Ming Wire
- Darice Heavy-Duty Jewelry Pliers
Step 1. Using the cutter portion of the pliers, cut two strands of 16-gauge wire measuring 3 inches each. Keep these strands as straight as possible. This can be tricky with wire, so try your best! You can always cut another piece of wire, if necessary.
Step 2. Bend one strand of wire into a v-shape.
Tip: Hold the center of the wire with the pliers. Use your fingers to bend the sides upward, creating a v-shape. The pliers will offer extra support during this step.
Step 3. Bend each side of the V. The point of each bend should be the halfway point in between the end of the wire and the first middle bend. Again, use the pliers for support.
Don’t stress if your first geometric wire diamond isn’t perfect. It might take a few tries to get a hang of working with thick wire!
Step 4. Carefully push the diamond shape so that the raw ends cross over.
Step 5. Repeat Steps 2-4 to create a second wire diamond shape.
Step 6. Cut a 6-inch strand of 24-gauge copper wire.
Step 7. Place a wire shape on top of the a hoop earring. Find where the hoop and wire cross; there should be two spots. This is where you’ll use thinner wire to wrap around these two spots.
Step 8. Tightly wrap around the hoop and wire shape. Notice how the wire shape was bent further; this will allow for more comfortable wear. I also found it was a bit easier to wrap the wire to the hoop earring while in this position.
Tip: Use a piece of masking tape to keep the other side together while you wrap. It will work wonders, trust me! It may be tricky at first, so be patient with yourself.
Step 9. Once the two pieces have been securely wrapped together, cut away the excess copper wire.
Step 10. Repeat on the other side.
Step 11. Repeat Steps 6-10 for the second hoop earring.
This how to make hoop earrings project is an excellent way to practice and hone your jewelry-making skills. It doesn’t hurt that they offer a unique mix of simplicity and quirkiness, too.
Looking for another way to dress up a pair of hoop earrings? Try this playful ombré tassel version!
About Kirsten Nunez
Kirsten is a lifestyle writer and craft book author focusing on DIY, food, health, and creativity. Since 2010, she has been sharing DIY projects at WildAmor.com (formerly Studs & Pearls). In May 2014, Kirsten published her first book, Studs & Pearls: 30 Creative Projects for Customized Fashion; you can find it at Barnes & Noble, Amazon & select independent bookstores. She spends most of her time writing, crafting, traveling, and dreaming up new recipe ideas. Kirsten is a born and raised New Yorker currently living in the Bay Area of California.
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